Amazing 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton (Info+Maps+Tips)

Our guide, 9 days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton, is your go-to for an easy and enjoyable exploration. Whether you’re a nature lover, a family, or a solo traveler, this guide has all you need for a memorable experience. Get set to discover majestic mountains, geysers, and the untamed beauty of these national parks.

There are 3 options you can do this 9-day itinerary:

• OPTION 1: Yellowstone to Grand Teton Adventure

Embark on a Yellowstone to Grand Teton journey, starting by flying into Yellowstone Airport (WYS) and concluding by flying out from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). Witness the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone before venturing into the majestic landscapes of Grand Teton.

This option provides a seamless transition from the bubbling geysers of Yellowstone to the towering peaks of Grand Teton.

• OPTION 2: Grand Teton to Yellowstone Expedition

Begin your adventure in the stunning Grand Teton National Park by flying into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). Traverse through the iconic Teton landscapes before heading to Yellowstone for an exploration of geothermal marvels.

Conclude your journey by departing from Yellowstone Airport (WYS) experiencing the best of both national parks.

• OPTION 3: Loop Adventure

Choose your preferred airport for arrival and departure in this convenient loop itinerary.

Start with the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, move on to the breathtaking landscapes of Grand Teton, and return to the starting airport.

GOOD TO KNOW: In this post, we will explore OPTION 1: Yellowstone to Grand Teton Adventure.

You will start by flying into Yellowstone Airport (WYS) and conclude by flying out from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC).

INTREPID’S PRO TIP:  You can easily reverse this itinerary and fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) and fly out of Yellowstone Airport (WYS) or make it a loop itinerary, fly in and out of the same airport.

Map of 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

West Yellowstone, Montana, is my preferred entry point to Yellowstone for several compelling reasons. This picturesque town serves as a bustling hub for visitor services and offers a strategic gateway to both the Upper and Lower Loops of the park.

• If you are flying in, then the Yellowstone Airport (WYS) in West Yellowstone facilitates air travel access to the region.
• If you are driving, then West Yellowstone is strategically positioned, lying approximately 90 miles from Bozeman, Montana, and 115 miles from Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Here are my top recommendations for a comfortable stay in West Yellowstone, ensuring the perfect end to your day of exploration in Yellowstone National Park:

• Explorer Cabins:

Explorer Cabins near the West Entrance are a top-notch choice that I highly recommend. These cabins offer a delightful blend of modern comfort and rustic charm. Picture this: you are only 0.6 miles away from Yellowstone’s wonders, with the convenience of a kitchenette, cozy fireplace, and your very own private entrance.

• 1872 Inn:

If you are looking for an adult-exclusive and upscale stay the 1872 Inn in West Yellowstone is where you want to be! You can relax in the sauna, use the fitness center, and enjoy a daily continental breakfast. It is all about making your stay exceptional and who does not like a bit of luxury after

• Kelly Inn:

Kelly Inn in West Yellowstone is a fantastic family-friendly place! It is packed with amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, and free WiFi, plus a complimentary breakfast. It is just a 2-minute walk to the National Geographic IMAX Theater and a quick 3-minute drive to Yellowstone Park’s West Entrance.

• Clubhouse Inn:

Clubhouse Inn is another great choice, just a 3-minute drive from the West Entrance! They offer an indoor pool, hot tub, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms feature a modern design with natural wood accents and come with essentials like a flat-screen TV, fridge, microwave, and coffee machine. Plus, let’s not forget a complimentary breakfast.

Today, you will embark on a day of exploration in Yellowstone, where you will witness the legendary eruptions of Old Faithful.

Next, you will continue your journey through the Castle Geyser to the Morning Glory Pool Section, where you will discover the fascinating geothermal wonders.

Finally, you will conclude your day at Biscuit Basin and Black Sand Basin before marveling at the vibrant hues of the Grand Prismatic Pool.

Get ready for a day filled with geothermal wonders as you will immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone!

There are 5 distinct sections in the Upper Geyser Basin.

For in-depth insights and detailed maps refer to: Guide to the Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone (5 Sections, Trails, Best Attractions+Maps)

Here, we will highlight each section and the best features you cannot miss:

• Old Faithful Geyser Area -The true superstar of the Old Faithful Geyser Area and the entire Upper Geyser Basin is undoubtedly Old Faithful itself. This remarkable geyser is a geological wonder that leaves everyone in awe.

Like clockwork, Old Faithful graces visitors with its awe-inspiring eruptions approximately every 90 minutes.

These eruptions, shooting superheated water and towering columns of steam skyward, reach heights that often span from 130 to 185 feet.

Old Faithful in the Upper Geyser Area / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Geyser Hill Area – Geyser Hill, situated just a brief stroll from the renowned Old Faithful is home to an impressive collection of over 50 geysers, solidifying its status as the fourth-largest geyser field on our planet.

Beehive Geyser stands as the titan of Geyser Hill, reigning as its largest geyser. It showcases a symmetrical white cone standing at an impressive 4 feet in height. Its eruptions, while less frequent than Old Faithful, are nothing short of remarkable. With a resounding roar, Beehive forcefully propels a narrow jet of water skyward, reaching astonishing heights of over 150 feet.

Beehive Geyser in Yellowstone / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Castle Geyser to Morning Glory Pool Section – The trail for this section spans approximately 2.4 miles round trip.

This section is a treasure trove of diverse geothermal features, plus it contains the Grand Geyser, the tallest geyser on Earth and undoubtedly the highlight of the Upper Geyser Basin.

Here, you will also find a stunning Crested Pool, known for its scorching temperatures averaging around 191.1°F (88.4°C). It is almost perpetually in a state of boiling, occasionally reaching heights of 6 feet (2 m) or more. The intense heat creates an environment where bacterial growth is inhibited, contributing to the pool’s remarkably clear blue water.

Stunning Crested Pool in Yellowstone / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Also, do not miss the Morning Glory Pool. It is renowned for its breathtaking colors that resemble the Morning Glory flower, hence its name. This vibrant hot spring boasts striking shades of blue and green. The pool reaches a depth of about 25 feet and maintains a warm temperature of around 165°F due to the geothermal activity beneath the park.

• Biscuit Basin Section – Exploring Biscuit Basin is a fun experience, and you can do so effortlessly on a brief loop trail made of wooden boardwalks.

The star of the Biscuit Basin Section is, in my opinion, the Sapphire Pool. It is a stunning geothermal feature renowned for its azure-blue color. The pool measures approximately 18 meters (56 feet) in diameter and reaches depths of up to 15 meters (50 feet), making it one of the larger thermal features in the park.

The vivid blue hue of Sapphire Pool is a result of its high water clarity, allowing sunlight to penetrate deep into the spring and scatter blue wavelengths, much like the effect seen in clear ocean waters.

Sapphire Pool / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Black Sand Basin – Black Sand Basin is a small yet stunning geothermal area. Named for its black sand created by obsidian erosion, this basin is a hidden gem worth exploring. At its core is the mesmerizing Opalescent Pool, a deep blue oasis surrounded by colorful algae and white silicified trees.

Next on the itinerary is the dazzling Grand Prismatic Spring.

This colossal marvel stretches an impressive 370 feet in width, making it Yellowstone’s largest hot water pool and the third largest in the world!

What sets Grand Prismatic Spring apart are its vibrant bands of color, pulsating with shades of yellow, green, red, and orange, a mesmerizing display created by thriving algae.

Grand Prismatic Spring / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

GOOD TO KNOW: Here’s a fascinating tidbit – on a sunny day, as you observe Grand Prismatic Spring from the road, you will witness an optical wonder. The steam rising above the spring mirrors the colors of the water below, appearing blue in the center and transitioning to brown or orange around the periphery.

On Day 3 of our Yellowstone exploration, we embark on a captivating journey through some of the park’s most enchanting wonders. From the cascading beauty of Gibbon Falls to the vibrant hues of the Artist Paintpots, our itinerary unfolds with a visit to the dynamic Norris Geyser Basin and concludes at the surreal terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs.

Gibbon Falls: Get ready for a visual feast at Gibbon Falls, where an 84-foot waterfall steals the show. Plunging over rugged cliffs into the Gibbon River, it’s a striking spectacle.

GOOD TO KNOW: A short paved walkway guides you to a fantastic viewing platform for the ultimate photo op.

Gibbon Falls, Yellowstone National Park / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Our next stop is Artists Paintpots, a geothermal wonderland with bubbling mud pots and colorful hot springs.

A breezy 1.2-mile loop trail will lead you through this artistic landscape where you can marvel up-close at paint-like bubbling mud pots, showcasing ever-changing hues from white to gray.

To top it off, there are numerous hot springs, that flaunt vibrant colors from different minerals, and create a unique palette. Plus, steaming fumaroles add to the mix, releasing billows of white steam that mingle with the vivid hues of the hot springs and mud pots.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Watch for Clepsydra Geyser’s rhythmic eruptions and catch Black Spouter’s playful antics. As you hit the trail, you’ll snag an overview of the area, treating yourself to a fantastic view of Mount Holmes in the distance.

Artists Paintpots Area with Mount Holmes in the Distance / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

The next stop is Norris Geyser Basin and here we will dive into a geothermal hotspot offering a dynamic showcase of Yellowstone’s hydrothermal features.

Divided into Porcelain Basin and Back Basin, it’s a trail of unpredictable eruptions and astounding heights!

Porcelain Basin, with its white mineral deposits and steaming vents, hosts geysers like Echinus and Vixen, famous for their unpredictable bursts.

Vixen Geyser in Porcelain Basin / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

The Back Basin boasts the world’s tallest active geyser, Steamboat Geyser, capable of erupting to incredible heights.

GOOD TO KNOW: There are trails and boardwalks that will safely guide you through this thermally active wonderland, where bubbling pools and hissing steam create an otherworldly experience.

Norris Geyser Basin with Boardwalk in the Distance / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Get ready to be wowed at our upcoming destination, Mammoth Hot Springs, where nature’s creativity takes center stage.

GOOD TO KNOW: Mammoth Hot Springs’s mesmerizing terraces are born from a dance between underground geothermal activity’s hot water and limestone deposits. Crafted from travertine, a type of limestone, these terraces evolve, showcasing captivating formations.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Explore the Main Terraces, featuring the Lower and Upper Terraces, along with the Canary Spring Terraces. The ever-changing Minerva Terrace boasts cascading pools, while the iconic Liberty Cap, shaped like French Revolution caps, makes a statement. Cleopatra Terrace displays a stunning cascading structure with vibrant mineral deposits, and Palette Spring adds a painterly touch with colorful layers of heat-loving bacteria.

Make sure to wander along wooden boardwalks and trails for an up-close view, ensuring a safe adventure amidst the hot thermal features.

Stunning Palette Spring in Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone  / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Embark on Day 4 of your Yellowstone adventure, where we’ll explore the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the fascinating geothermal wonders of West Thumb Geyser Basin. Get ready for breathtaking landscapes and captivating natural marvels!

Begin your day by delving into the magnificent Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. This stunning canyon, spanning 24 miles, boasts sections with widths of up to 4,000 feet and depths plunging to 1,200 feet, all sculpted by the turquoise waters of the Yellowstone River.

Two iconic waterfalls, the towering Lower Falls, dropping 308 feet, and the impressive Upper Falls with a 109-foot drop, showcase the sheer power of the Yellowstone River as it carves its way through the Grand Canyon.

GOOD TO KNOW: There are three scenic drives: North Rim Drive, South Rim Drive, and Brink of the Upper Falls Drive. Each of them offers breathtaking views of the canyon.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Opt for the South Rim Drive, about 3 miles out and back, which offers sweeping vistas and short hikes, plus iconic viewpoints like the famous Artist Point.

View from Artist Point on the South Rim Drive in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

The next stop is the West Thumb Geyser Basin.

Nestled along the western shore of Yellowstone Lake, this geothermal gem sits at a lofty elevation of 7,800 feet.

Marvel at the vibrant blues and steaming pools that dance against the backdrop of the serene lake. Don’t miss these standout features:

• Abyss Pool stands out as a renowned attraction in the West Thumb Geyser Basin. This hot spring, with its deep emerald-green hue and almost perfect circular shape, captivates with both its depth and color. A striking illustration of the interplay between hydrothermal forces and Yellowstone Lake’s waters, the pool’s contrasting colors against the lake’s pristine blue make it a favorite photography spot.

Abyss Pool in the West Thumb Geyser Basin / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Fishing Cone, a historic highlight in the basin, earned its name from a bygone era when pioneers would catch fish in Yellowstone Lake and promptly cook them in the cone’s boiling waters. Although fishing within the cone is prohibited today to protect the area, the rich historical legacy of this practice enhances the basin’s charm.
• Bluebell Pool dazzles with its remarkable blue hue, a result of dissolved minerals and the enchanting interaction of light with the water. The pool’s appearance is ever-changing, with colors shifting over time due to temperature fluctuations and mineral content variations.
• Meanwhile, Black Pool lives up to its name as an intriguing thermal feature in the basin. The deep black center, absorbing sunlight in a unique way, is encircled by a vibrant blue ring, creating a captivating visual spectacle.

GOOD TO KNOW: The West Thumb Geyser Basin is accessible via an easily navigable boardwalk, which will allow you to explore the area and experience the fascinating geothermal phenomena up close.

Lake Yellowstone and Boardwalk in the West Thumb Geyser Basin / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Today, you will embark on a picturesque journey from Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park!

The drive spans approximately 60 miles, leading you through the scenic John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, a tribute to the park’s preservation efforts and the philanthropist’s contributions.

On your journey, make a must-stop at Oxbow Bend – a can’t-miss gem in Grand Teton!

Next, get ready for an adventure on the iconic Jenny Lake Trail, complete with a scenic boat ride across the lake and a hike to the breathtaking Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton National Park, is a site renowned for its panoramic views and historical significance.

Positioned against the striking backdrop of the Teton Range, this location gained prominence through the work of renowned photographer Ansel Adams. The meandering Snake River gracefully reflects the grandeur of the Tetons, creating a picturesque scene that has become iconic.

Beyond its scenic allure, Oxbow Bend is a prime wildlife habitat. Here, you might be able to catch glimpses of moose, elk, and bald eagles that are frequenting the riverbanks.

 Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Begin your journey by taking the shuttle from Jenny Lake East Boat Dock, conveniently located next to Jenny Lake Visitor Center. The brief, scenic shuttle ride takes you across Jenny Lake to the West Boat Dock, where you’ll find signs leading to the Cascade Canyon Trailhead.

GOOD TO KNOW: Shuttles run every 10-15 minutes, with a round-trip ticket costing $18 and a one-way ticket priced at $10.

 Jenny Lake with the Boat Dock Dock in the Distance / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Next, embark on the Cascade Canyon Trail through a forested area, eventually crossing Cascade Canyon Creek as the landscape unfolds.
• Approximately 0.5 miles from the trailhead, a short side trail leads to the captivating Hidden Falls, a 100-foot waterfall cascading in a series.

Hidden Falls in Grand Teton / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• After retracing your steps, continue on Cascade Canyon Trail, turning right for a short, steep ascent to Inspiration Point, offering breathtaking views of Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole, and the Gros Ventre Range.
• Once you’ve soaked in the scenery, return the way you came, with options to hike back or take the boat shuttle from the West Boat Dock to the Jenny Lake Trailhead.

GOOD TO KNOW: Jenny Lake, formed around 12,000 years ago by glacial activity, is approximately 256 feet deep and spans 1,191 acres, shaped by glaciers that carved Cascade Canyon.

Jenny Lake from Inspiration Point / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

After a day of exploration, settle in for a cozy overnight stay in Jackson. This vibrant town offers a range of accommodations, from charming inns to modern hotels.

My recommendation is to enjoy the evening in this lively town, exploring local dining options or taking a stroll through its charming streets.

Following are some of my favorite places to stay in Jackson:

• Bentwood Inn

Bentwood Inn is located 14 miles from Jackson Hole Airport and Grand Teton National Park is 23 miles away.

Bentwood Inn is a beautiful hotel built from 200-year-old logs!

GOOD TO KNOW: The rooms are all decorated in individual Western themes with antique-style furnishings. Each room has a fireplace, flat-screen TVs, upscale linens, and down comforters. Some rooms have bay windows, whirlpool tubs, and balconies.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Don’t miss the 5 pm happy hour with complimentary wine, beer, and hors d’oeuvres served in the main room. It is a nice touch after a day of exploring. Hands down, you will enjoy staying at this hotel!

• Fireside Resort 

Fireside Resort is located no more than a 5-minute drive from Teton Village.

The cabins, embrace a ‘tiny house’ concept. They offer a cozy alternative to hotels! All provide pet-friendly amenities (if you are traveling with a pet, this option is perfect).

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: You will enjoy the convenience of a shorter route to the park without going through Jackson, making this retreat an ideal location!

• Hotel Jackson

Hotel Jackson is a classy hotel with spacious beautifully decorated rooms that reflect the Jackson Wyoming style.

There are so many perfect touches about this place like the chilled Aqua Panna in a glass bottle, accompanied by ice. The in-room espresso machine that adds a touch of indulgence. The luxurious bedding and lighting fixture that can be set to a soothing dim.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Make sure not to miss the on-site Lebanese restaurant Figs. It is a culinary adventure that is nothing short of extraordinary.

But, what I appreciate the most is the customer service. It is top-notch! You will not go wrong with staying at Hotel Jackson.

• Wyoming Inn of Jackson Hole

Wyoming Inn of Jackson Hole is a beautiful hotel, clean, with friendly staff. My room was spacious, with a large TV, a glass shower, and a nice and comfy king bed.

The spa has a nice large tub, which is much needed after a long day hiking in the mountains. The fitness center is small, but it has a Peloton treadmill, which is great! Again, you will enjoy staying at this hotel.

If you’re seeking a remarkable hike, look no further than the Leigh Lake Trail – easily one of my preferred routes in Grand Teton National Park!

The journey commences with a serene walk along String Lake, offering captivating views of the grandeur of the Grand Tetons. Subsequently, it skirts along the eastern perimeter of Leigh Lake, guiding you to the tranquil environs of Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes.

Envision this: four breathtaking alpine lakes and an ever-changing panorama where the Grand Tetons cast a picturesque reflection upon the lake waters!

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Right below, you’ll find the trail map and foolproof step-by-step instructions to conquer this hike like a pro:

Map of Leigh Lake Trail. Image Credit: National Park Service / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton

• Roundtrip Distance: 11.9 miles
• Trail Location: String Lake Trailhead
• Time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

• Start the hike from String Lake Trailhead, positioned just north of Jenny Lake. To access the trailhead, turn west off Teton Park Road at North Jenny Lake Junction, approximately 10.6 miles from Moose Junction and 10 miles south of Jackson Lake Junction.
• You will begin your hike by heading north along String Lake. Continue your journey along String Lake for about 1.4 miles until you encounter the Leigh Lake Trail Junction. At this point, relish the remarkable views of the Cathedral Group, and observe Mount Moran standing proudly at 12,605 feet.

Mount Moran Mirrored in String Lake / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Next, embark on a 2.8-mile trek along the eastern shore of Leigh Lake until you reach Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes Junction. The views are off the charts!

Reflections in Leigh Lake / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Take a right turn, and in a concise 0.4 miles, you’ll find yourself at the picturesque glacial Bearpaw Lake.
• Next, head to Trapper Lake. Simply follow the sign for Trapper Lake, located approximately 0.9 miles away.

Trapper Lake in Grand Teton / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• Next, head back to Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes Junction, turn right, and hike for about 0.7 miles to Paintbrush Canyon Trail. Continue south for 1.3 miles, passing through alternating landscapes of forests and meadows.
• After covering 0.7 miles, you’ll encounter another junction. Slightly veer left and proceed south for about 1.3 miles along String Lake, intermittently moving away from the lake.
• Concluding your journey, you’ll reach String Lake Outlet and a footbridge. Cross it and continue for no more than 0.3 miles until you find yourself back at the String Lake Trailhead, completing a fulfilling and picturesque expedition.

Today you will hike to the stunning Taggart and Bradley Lakes, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

• Roundtrip Distance: 6 miles
• Trail Location: Taggart Lake Trailhead
• Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Start day 7 of your adventure in Grand Teton with a hike on the Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake Loop Trail adventure.

GOOD TO KNOW: The Taggart Lake Trailhead is located just 2.3 miles north of the Moose Entrance Station.

• From the trailhead, follow Beaver Creek Trail for about 0.1 miles, heading north. After crossing the footbridge over Taggart Creek, you’ll find yourself on Taggart Lake Trail, offering stunning views along Taggart Creek.

Grand Tetons Reflected in Taggart Lake / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• At 1.1 miles, reach the Bradley Lake Trail Junction. Take a right onto Bradley Lake Trail and hike approximately 1 mile toward Bradley Lake. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Cathedral Group during the final ascent, a perfect photo op.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP:  Bradley Lake has many paths that lead to its shore. It is a perfect spot to ake a break, refuel, and soak in the incredible views before heading back on Bradley Lake Trail.

• Next, continue south for about 1.5 miles, catching views of Taggart Lake below. The trail then runs along Taggart Lake, providing more photo opportunities.
• At 3.6 miles, cross a footbridge over an inlet, transitioning to Beaver Creek Trail. Marvel at sweeping views over meadows and Jackson Hole for approximately 1.6 miles until you return to the Taggart Lake Trailhead, completing a memorable hike.

Today you will embark on the scenic Phelps Lake Hike. This hike is special because part of it goes through the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve.

GOOD TO KNOW: Make a note that the parking at the Preserve is limited. So, start your day early and get to the parking area no later than 9-10 am to secure a parking spot.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: My recommendation is to hike in a counterclockwise direction for the best views of the mountains.

• Roundtrip Distance: 6.9
• Trail Location: Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve
• Time: 4 hours
• Difficulty: Easy

• Start your hike at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Visitor Center and take Woodland Trail to Phelps Lake. It is no more than a 1.3-mile hike before you reach Phelps Lake.
• Right from the start, you will get to enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Make sure to locate Death Canyon in the distance and Albright Peak standing at 10,552 feet. To the left of the canyon is 11,241-foot Prospectors Mountain.

• Start your hike at the Laurance S. Rockefeller Visitor Center and take Woodland Trail to Phelps Lake. It is no more than a 1.3-mile hike before you reach Phelps Lake.
• Right from the start, you will get to enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Make sure to locate Death Canyon in the distance and Albright Peak standing at 10,552 feet. To the left of the canyon is 11,241-foot Prospectors Mountain.

Phelps Lake in Grand Teton / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

• At about 2.5 miles from the trailhead, you will reach a huge boulder sitting on the edge of the lake. Here, you can get even better views of Death Canyon.
• At about 3.1 miles you will reach the north shore of Phelps Lake and a nice sandy beach. If you are ready for a break, then this is a perfect spot!
• Next, locate a sign at the beach indicating the direction to the Valley Trail Junction.
• The next section of the trail is very beautiful. It meanders through lovely meadows. You will be passing by Huckleberry Point. Make sure to stop by and soak in some spectacular views of Death Valley and Albright Peak.
• Next, at about 5.5 miles, you will get to the Lake Creek Trail Junction. Continue on Lake Creek Trail to the LSR Visitor Center where you started your hike.

On day 9 of our Grand Teton journey, we begin with a mesmerizing sunrise at Mormon Row, followed by a visit to the scenic Schwabacher Landing.

The day concludes as we bid farewell to the spectacular landscapes of Grand Teton.

Wake up early for a front-row seat to the magical sunrise at Mormon Row Historic District.

As the sun peeks over the mountains, it paints the Teton Range in hues of pink and orange, while the iconic Moulton Barns stand silhouetted against the breathtaking backdrop.

The vast fields come to life, and the whole scene becomes a photographer’s dream!

Sunrise at Mormon Row / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Schwabacher Landing is one of my favorite spots in Grand Teton National Park. So, of all the spots in the park, do not miss Schwabacher Landing. Here, you will see a picture-perfect reflection of the Tetons in the still waters of the Snake River.

As you meander along the riverbank, keep an eye out for wildlife; moose, beavers, and elk often make appearances, adding a touch of wilderness to this scenic spot.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Now, do not miss the turn to Schwabacher Landing! It is easy to just drive by it. So slow down and be on the lookout for the sign.

If you are following my directions and doing the loop counterclockwise, then the sign will be on your left, right after Glacier View Turnout.

Schwabacher Landing / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

Wrapping up our 9-day trip in Yellowstone and Grand Teton, we’re saying goodbye to the amazing sights and experiences.

Leaving from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), we take the memories of geysers, wildlife, and the stunning scenery with us. Until next time, Yellowstone and Grand Teton!